What is it?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is obtained from crushed apples that are put through the fermentation process twice. The second fermentation process changes the alcohol produced by yeast in the first fermentation into acetic acid. It is used in cooking, salad dressings, and as a home remedy for several ailments (Groth, 22).
What benefits does apple cider vinegar offer to the drinker?
If you look closely inside a raw apple cider vinegar bottle, then you might observe cloudy particles inside the liquid. These cloudy particles are referred to as the mother and are said to contain the yeast and other microbes that confer the beneficial properties to apple cider vinegar (Exploring the Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar, 2021). Some beneficial effects of apple cider vinegar include:
1. Prevents cellular damage from free radicals as apple cider vinegar, especially the raw one, contains antioxidants. Apple cider vinegar has natural antioxidant, called polyphenols, which are important in protecting the body from having too many damaging free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells and tissue.
2. Lowers blood glucose levels to some extent. Apple cider vinegar for diabetes now shows that even small, regular doses of apple cider vinegar can have a positive influence on blood sugar although very little.
3. May calm acid reflux. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is a valve that sits between the esophagus and the stomach, is the most common culprit in reflux disorder. Reflux mostly happens when the valve relaxes too much, allowing gastric acid to move up, and through the sphincter causing discomfort/pain. There is a theory that the acidic content in the stomach helps to control the LES. If the acidic content moves towards being too basic then, the muscles around the LES would relax, resulting in more reflux. Essentially, ACV lends to the overall acidity of the stomach. As this has not been proven, some others like gastroenterologist Maged Rizk, suggests that there is no harm in trying it if taken in small quantities and diluted in water (Maged Rizk, 2018)
4. May render antimicrobial effects against E.coli infection or MRSA infection and it also has antifungal activity against candida species (Smriti Tripathi, 2020).
5. It may help in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides in the body. Numerous studies shown that consuming ACV can help reduce cholesterol levels. Study illustrated that it reduced the levels of triglycerides and increased the HDLs. Another study also showed a significant reduction in LDL and triglycerides after consuming ACV for eight weeks.
6. May help in detoxification, cleansing, and improving the blood clotting process (1, Allithy2, & Sayed3, 2016). ACV cleanses your digestive system and encourages healthy bacteria mainly due to its acidic nature. ACV cleanse involves consuming 1 or 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar mixed with 8 ounces of water. The mixture is consumed for several days to a month. Proponents say the detox fosters weight loss and offers a broad range of other health benefits.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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